Bill > SB1090

This bill requires new residential construction in Hawaii to be prepared for solar and electric vehicle infrastructure, with the goal of making the state's transition to renewable energy more cost-effective and efficient. Starting January 1, 2026, the bill mandates that new residential buildings offered for sale at fair market value must include specific solar and electric vehicle readiness features. For single-family homes and residential units in two-family dwellings, this includes installing an electrical panel capable of supporting a five-kilowatt solar system, providing conduits for solar equipment routing, and designating spaces for inverters and metering equipment. Multi-family residences must have electrical panels with reserved space for solar systems, clearly labeled as "solar photovoltaic-ready". Additionally, when an electrical panel and parking area are installed for residential buildings (including single-family homes, two-family residences, and multi-family buildings of three stories or fewer), a dedicated electric vehicle charging receptacle meeting Level 2 standards must be provided. The bill highlights that implementing these requirements during initial construction is significantly more cost-effective and less disruptive than retrofitting existing structures, with estimated installation costs ranging from $100 to $300.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1090&year=2025